So... a new computer (box only) running vista..
firstly - the comp.
Pentium D dual core 2.8Ghz (2mb cache x 2)
Gigabyte mobo - 800mhz FSB, 8channel realtek HD audio, intel GMA 950 graphics, gigabit lan.
1.5 gig DDR2 PC-4200 ram
18x super-multi DVD burner with lightscribe.
250gb seagate SATA 16mb cache.
random "deluxe" case.
Evil computer - $666.
good enought to write a thesis anyway.
so yeah, free windows Vista home premium, live onecare and office home and student c/o Microsoft Expertzone..

Vista installed fine - everything was compatible. All software I installed works fine (firefox, photoshop, itunes,etc).... except. Nero 6 and powerDVD 6 that come pre-loaded with the DVD burner aren't compatible. No patch instead you can upgrade ($30ea) to version 7 which supports vista. - pirating pursued.
My netgear router was not compatible with the combination of vista and Windows live messenger... turns out it needed a firmware upgrade. (A flaw thwt XP overlooked but vista caught)... RANDOM.
Only other issue was my new USB HDTV receiver (officeworks, $79 -sale finished now). Works fine in media centre but hss issues with the packaged software.. c'est la vie.
so yeah.. getting it sorted... now time to sort through my old pile o junk.